Dental veneers can reshape and whiten your smile for life. They are an amazing tool in cosmetic dentistry, and they have transformed the way people think and feel about their teeth. If you are thinking about getting dental veneers or you already have them, you need to know how to properly care for them. Check out these dental veneer care tips, courtesy of our Michigan cosmetic dentist.
Brush And Floss Regularly
You should brush and floss your dental veneers just as often as you did before. Brush twice a day and floss once. Visit your dentist for professional cleanings twice a year to reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Gum disease is particularly dangerous for veneers because the gum recedes and exposes the base of the veneer. This can cause it to detach from the tooth or chip over time.
Avoid Certain Foods
Try to avoid biting into hard foods, like peanut brittle, raw apples, carrots or chips. The force required to cut into these foods puts extra pressure on your veneers. The adhesive used for dental veneers is designed to withstand this pressure, but constant wear and tear could shorten the lifespan of your veneers. If you are going to eat something like an apple, cut it up so you can directly access the skin – not bite through the crisp exterior.
Pick The Right Toothpaste
Hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate are common ingredients in toothpaste, but they can eat away at the surface of your veneers. Baking soda is another popular ingredient, but it will dull the sheen of your veneers. Gel toothpastes do not contain these ingredients, and most of them are safe to use on dental veneers. In general, stay away from whitening toothpastes. Veneers will not stain like tooth enamel, so you will not need any whitening agents in your oral care.
Prevent Tooth Grinding
Tooth grinding puts pressure on your veneers and may cause them to crack or come off. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a nighttime mouth guard. If you grind your teeth during stressful situations, try to be aware of this bad habit. Find other ways to cope with your stress, like squeezing on a ball or using a fidget device.
Avoid Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol may weaken the bonding agents holding your veneers to your teeth. While you are allowed to drink alcohol with veneers, try not to do so in excess. This also includes alcohol exposure through mouthwash. Talk to your cosmetic dentist about mouthwashes that will be safe to use with your dental veneers.
Use A Soft Bristled Toothbrush
If you brush your teeth too hard, you may scratch the surface of your veneers. This will make them weaker and will dull their sheen. A soft bristled toothbrush will allow you to get rid of food particles in your mouth without hurting your veneers. Combine this with the other dental veneer care tips listed above, and you can enjoy your gorgeous smile well into the future.
